8592-Chief Deputy Adult Probation Officer (SFERS)

About the role

The Chief Deputy Adult Probation Officer (CDAPO) at the San Francisco Adult Probation Department (SFAPD) reports to the Chief Probation Officer and provides high-level leadership to organize, plan, and manage day-to-day department activities while ensuring compliance with departmental policies, methods, and procedures. The role advances SFAPD’s mission to enhance public safety, support victim restoration, and deliver structured, evidence-based supervision and reentry services.

Responsibilities

• Formulate strategic plans for client rehabilitation and staff safety.
• Act on behalf of the CPO to collaborate with agencies, law enforcement, stakeholders, and community groups to develop and implement programs, services, and initiatives.
• Analyze staffing and performance data to recommend equitable and efficient operational improvements.
• Develop and train staff; assist the CPO in overseeing key divisions.
• Assist in preparing and controlling the annual budget for personnel and non-personnel services within authorized appropriations.
• Stay current with leadership development, criminal justice trends, technological advancements, and evidence-based practices to support staff and advance departmental goals.
• Prioritize staff wellness, professional development, engagement, and recognition.
• Design strategies with subordinate staff to assess and achieve balanced performance, feedback, and evaluation.
• Ensure subordinate staff produce data and documentation for required reports and maintain departmental records.
• Direct development and implementation of goals, initiatives, programs, policies, and strategic plans; manage resource allocation and service levels.
• Align grievance and discipline practices with MOUs; establish departmental personnel policies and procedures.
• Oversee internal affairs, investigate citizen complaints, coordinate resolution, recommend corrective actions, and represent the department with the City Attorney and other agencies.
• Consult with the Mayor, Board of Supervisors staff, and other City departments on behalf of the Chief as needed.
• Represent the Department before commissions, boards, committees, agencies, organizations, and media; lead division directors to address program issues; establish priorities; review management reports; evaluate service levels and performance standards.
• Advise staff on current developments, personnel matters, and policy or procedural changes.
• Work non-traditional hours including evenings and weekends, in office or in the field, and may be required to be armed.

Requirements

• Baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university with a major in Criminology, Corrections, Social Work, Psychology, Sociology, or a closely related field (e.g., Juris Doctorate).
• Five years of full-time (or equivalent) supervisory experience in field services, institutional work, related special programs in a California County Probation Department, California Corrections Facility, government agency, or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Master’s degree in a related field (e.g., Criminology, Corrections, Social Work, Psychology, Sociology, JD) may substitute for one year of required supervisory experience.
• Meet all minimum standards for Peace Officer under California Government Code Section 1031:
  • Citizen of the United States or a permanent resident eligible for and having applied for citizenship.
  • At least 18 years of age.
  • Fingerprinted for local, state, and national records.
  • Good moral character verified by background investigation.
  • High school diploma or equivalency; or a two-year, four-year, or advanced degree from an accredited college or university.
• Must complete any state-mandated peace officer trainings within one year of hire.
• Must pass POST law enforcement background investigation and psychological examination.
• Conviction of a felony or a crime that would have been a felony if committed in California is a bar to employment as a peace officer.

Desirable Qualifications

• Knowledge of:
  • Legislative process and implications for operations.
  • Existing codes, ordinances, laws, regulations, and evidence-based practices related to Probation Department operations.
  • Principles, trends, and techniques in adult probation service delivery.
  • Organization of the Superior Courts regarding jurisdiction, operations, policies, and procedures.
• Ability to:
  • Interpret and apply laws, codes, and regulations; monitor staff performance to ensure compliance and respect for legal rights and obligations of adult offenders.
  • Plan, organize, direct, and coordinate division activities, including developing and implementing policies and procedures.
  • Manage conflict and utilize effective organizational practices.
  • Demonstrate superior written and oral communication skills.
  • Lead staff in developing and implementing training programs, including those for sworn staff to comply with law changes, professional development, and policy updates.
  • Lead staff in uplifting internal and external programs and initiatives that support the organization’s mission and vision.
  • Advance equity and inclusion through trainings, policy development, and service delivery.